Advocating for my child?

So yesterday, my child's daycare informed me that she is rough with the other children in her class...pushing and hitting. She is 17-months-old and the children in her class range in age from 14 to 19 months. I was told that they think she may need to transition earlier to the 18-month-old class to protect the other babies. While she is not physically larger than most of them, she was described as being like a "little football player".

Well, I was fine with their logic and wanted what was best for all children involved. I told my parents, and my dad basically made me feel like I am allowing them to negatively label my child. He is a school court judge and truancy officer. He has seen firsthand how children are labeled and has concerns that I am already allowing that to happen.

All of the teachers love my daughter. She is like a little celebrity in her daycare. Everyone comments on her personality and how smart she is. Her teachers say she is so helpful in the classroom (she mops, holds the dust pan, and helps throw away trash at home, so I know this is true). I don't think they have it out for my daughter, but am I making a mistake by allowing them to move her and saying that she is aggressive?

Comments (4)

I had the same issue when my now 12 year old was that age. We did a trial period in the 18-36 class and turns out she did better there so she stayed. She also transitions to pres school at 30 months , and kindergarten at 4. I’d say try it, I’m sure they have her best interest at heart , and she could probably stand to be in a more challenging atmosphere. A trial period and slow transition depending on the adjustment period. Good luck.

I say to try it out. They know what they're doing just like you know your child so I think trusting them and testing out a trial period of her being in the older class makes sense. I wouldn't just assume or jump to the conclusion that they are labeling your daughter. That doesn't seem like the issue at all here. I am an educator and trust me, I get where your father is coming from but I don't see this situation as fitting that particular bill. Just because they are making this suggestion doesn't mean they are labeling your child or putting them into some box to fit into. They want what is best for your child and the other children so I would suggest trying out their idea first. If it doesn't work and you feel it is detrimental to your child, then you can make the call.

Thanks ladies! I was truly fine with it until my dad had me doubting myself. I have always been very confident in my parenting decisions, but this is the first time where I really had to second guess myself. DH (dear husband) was fine with it too. My princess is no angel. She has hit me in the face, so it's not like this is would be completely out of her abilities.

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